As 2026 unfolds, Australian sport is poised for an exhilarating year. With the Australian Open tennis underway in Melbourne, the Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina just around the corner, the Commonwealth Games scheduled in Glasgow later in the year, and ongoing action in AFL, NRL, cricket, and more, the nation’s athletes are set to shine on global stages. From established superstars chasing more glory to emerging prodigies ready to break through, here are the top Australian sports stars to keep an eye on in 2026.
This article highlights a mix of proven champions and rising talents across key sports, drawing on recent performances, predictions, Australian Sports and major events ahead.
Tennis: Home Hope Alex de Minaur Leads the Charge
Australian tennis fans have high expectations at the Australian Open 2026, where local heroes aim to make deep runs on Australian Sports home soil.
Alex de Minaur – The World No. 7 Contender
World No. 7 Alex de Minaur remains Australia’s brightest hope for a breakthrough Grand Slam title. After consistent deep runs and strong pre-season form, De Minaur is targeting his first major trophy in Melbourne. His speed, defense, and improved aggression make him a threat against top seeds like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
De Minaur’s journey embodies resilience, and 2026 could be the year he finally cracks the top echelon on home courts.
Here are dynamic shots of Alex de Minaur in action during recent Australian Open campaigns:
Rising Star Maya Joint – Australia’s New Women’s No. 1
At just 19, Maya Joint has surged to become Australia’s top-ranked woman (world No. 32). After breakout titles and a strong 2025, she enters the AO seeded for the first time. Joint’s powerful baseline game and composure position her as a dark horse for a deep run or even a surprise title challenge.
For more on Australian tennis prospects,Australian Sports check the official Australian Open website.
Swimming: The Golden Generation Continues to Dominate
Swimming: The Golden Generation Continues to Dominate
As of January 11, 2026, Australian swimming remains a global powerhouse, carrying forward the momentum from an extraordinary run of success. The “Golden Generation” — featuring multiple Olympic, World, and Commonwealth champions — has delivered medal hauls that rival the best in history. Even with some transitions (notably Ariarne Titmus‘s retirement in late 2025 at age 25), the depth and talent ensure Australia continues to dominate the pool. With key events like the Australian Swimming Trials (June 7–13, 2026, at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre) serving as selection for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games (late July) and the Pan Pacific Championships, 2026 promises more golden moments.
This year, without a major long-course global championship (no Olympics or World Championships), focus shifts to regional showdowns, short-course worlds in December, and building toward Los Angeles 2028. Here’s why Australia’s swimmers are still the ones to beat.
The Backbone: Kaylee McKeown – The Backstroke Queen Reigns Supreme
At 23 (turning 24 in 2026), Kaylee McKeown stands as arguably the greatest backstroker of all time. The five-time Olympic gold medalist (including back-to-back doubles in 100m and 200m backstroke) has broken multiple world records and defended titles relentlessly. In late 2025, she shattered the short-course 200m back world record with a stunning 1:57.87, proving her dominance across formats.
McKeown’s outlook for 2026 is fierce: she’ll target the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she could rack up multiple golds, and use the year to fine-tune for LA 2028 — aiming for an unprecedented third straight Olympic backstroke double. Her versatility, mental toughness, and rivalry with American Regan Smith keep pushing boundaries.
Here are powerful action shots of Kaylee McKeown dominating the backstroke:
Her coach Michael Bohl’s potential sabbatical adds intrigue, but McKeown’s self-driven excellence ensures continuity.
Mollie O’Callaghan – The Freestyle Phenom Taking Over
Mollie O’Callaghan, now 22,Australian Sports has emerged as the heir apparent in freestyle. The teenage sensation who upset legends at previous Olympics and Worlds continued her rise in 2025, setting short-course world records (including a blistering 200m free) and claiming individual world titles. Post-Titmus retirement, O’Callaghan steps into the spotlight as Australia’s top freestyle threat.
Expect her to shine at the Commonwealth Games, potentially leading relays and chasing individual golds in 100m/200m free. Her explosive starts, endurance, and composure under pressure make her a medal machine.
Dynamic images of Mollie O’Callaghan powering through the freestyle:
Emerging Stars and Depth: The Next Wave
Australia’s talent pool runs deep beyond the headliners:
- Lani Pallister — Distance freestyle breakout star with Australian records in 800m free.
- Meg Harris — Sprint freestyle specialist and relay anchor.
- Kyle Chalmers — Veteran 100m free Olympic champion still among the world’s best.
- Harrison Turner, Alex Perkins, Jenna Forrester, and Elizabeth Dekkers — Young medalists from recent Worlds adding fresh energy.
These athletes will vie for spots at the June Trials in Sydney, a high-stakes event doubling as prep for Glasgow and Pan Pacs.
The Road to Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games (scaled-down edition at Tollcross International Swimming Centre) will feature fierce competition in swimming and para-swimming. Australia, led by Chef de Mission Petria Thomas Australian Sports (nine-time Games gold medalist), aims to continue its historic dominance — think multiple golds in relays, backstroke, and freestyle.
With no major global clash this summer, swimmers can focus on peaking for Commonwealth glory and short-course Worlds later in the year.
Celebratory moments from Australian swimmers at past Commonwealth Games:
Ariarne Titmus and Australia’s swimmers wrap up golden …
Why the Golden Era Endures
Despite retirements (Emma McKeon post-Paris, Titmus in 2025), the blend of experience (McKeown, Chalmers) and youth (O’Callaghan, Pallister) keeps Australia ahead. Strong programs, rivalries, and events like the World Cup series sharpen Australian Sports skills year-round.
The future looks golden — with eyes on Brisbane 2032 home Games.
Kaylee McKeown – Backstroke Queen Eyeing More Records
Kaylee McKeown, a multiple Olympic Australian Sports and world champion, remains the dominant force in backstroke events. Her relentless pursuit of records and versatility across strokes make her a must-watch. At the Commonwealth Games,Australian Sports expect her to rack up multiple golds and push world-best times.
Catch her in full flight:
Kaylee McKeown swims her own race – even with a rare Olympics …
Mollie O’Callaghan – On Track for Historic Medal Haul
Young gun Mollie O’Callaghan, already a five-time Olympic medalist at 21, is predicted to challenge the record for most medals at a single Commonwealth Games (currently six). Her freestyle prowess and relay contributions will be central to Australia’s dominance.
Other names like Harrison Australian Sports Turner Australian Sports (emerging butterfly specialist) add depth to the squad.
Cricket: Transition Time with New Blood Emerging
With Australia’s Test Australian Sports side facing a packed schedule, 2026 signals a gentle handover.
Pat Cummins – The All-Format Leader
Captain Pat Cummins continues as the heartbeat of Australian cricket. His leadership, pace bowling, and all-round contributions keep him among the world’s elite. Expect him to shine in the Ashes buildup and domestic summer.
Iconic bowling action from the skipper:
Pat Cummins Bowling Action Slow-Motion
Ollie Peake – The Young Gun to Watch
19-year-old Ollie Peake is tipped as the next big thing in Australian cricket. A Victorian mainstay, he’s set to captain the U19 side and push for senior selection amid transitions.
AFL: Captains and Breakout Stars in Focus
The AFL season ramps up with fresh narratives.
Patrick Cripps – Carlton’s Inspirational Leader
Patrick Cripps, Carlton captain and former Brownlow Medalist, remains a dominant midfielder. His leadership and Australian Sports contested ball-winning ability make him a perennial star.
Epic moments from Cripps:
Captain Cripps provides special newborn celebration
Emerging talents like Sam Durham (potential Essendon skipper) and Jasper Fletcher add excitement.
Surfing and Other Sports: Global Stars Rising
Jack Robinson – World Title Contender
Jack Robinson Australian Sports continues his charge toward surfing supremacy. His powerful, progressive style positions him for major wins on the WSL tour.
Epic wave-riding shots:
Surfer Jack Robinson: ‘You can get ahead of yourself … it’s about …
Winter Sports Hopefuls for Milano-Cortina 2026
In the Winter Olympics, Jakara Anthony Australian Sports (moguls defending champ), Bree Walker (bobsleigh history-maker), and snowboarders like Tess Coady and Scotty James aim for medals.
Athletics Standouts
Fresh off successes like the World Cross Country win, Jessica Hull and Ky Robinson lead distance hopes, while sprinter Gout Gout (under-21 sensation) eyes Commonwealth glory.
Why 2026 Is a Landmark Year for Australian Sport
From the electric atmosphere of Rod Australian Sports Laver Arena to snow-capped peaks in Italy and the multi-sport spectacle in Glasgow, Australian athletes will compete across continents. Established icons like De Minaur, McKeown, Cummins, and Cripps provide stability, while prodigies like Joint, Peake, and O’Callaghan signal a bright future.
This blend of Australian Sports experience and youth positions Australia for continued global success.
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2026 promises unforgettable moments — who will become Australia’s next sporting legend? Follow the action across the year!
